The Indiana Pacers’ dream of winning the championship this year has been shattered after suffering four straight losses in the seven-game Eastern Conference finals series against the Boston Celtics. The Pacers lost Game 4 with a score of 102-105.
Following their elimination from the series, Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle opened up about the loss and the players’ plans during the press conference. He expects Andrew Nembhard and Bennedict Mathurin to be on the Canadian National Team for the 2024 Olympics this summer.
“I think Mathurin will not be cleared to play for Team Canada, but he will be with the team,” Carlisle said.
After the Pacers’ game three loss, Carlisle expressed frustration when a reporter asked about losing the series, stating, “You don’t have to remind me about it.”
Nembhard had his best postseason performances in the absence of Tyrese Haliburton
Nembhard chose not to play for the Canadian national team for three years starting in 2022, unlike 14 other players. These players were guaranteed a spot on the Olympic squad if they competed for Canada whenever possible leading up to and during the Olympics. Nembhard, a 24-year-old guard for the Pacers, did not participate in the 2023 FIBA World Cup last summer. However, he did represent the senior squad in the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
Looking ahead to the new season, Nembhard is expected to be among the most exciting players. Nembhard had his best postseason performances in Games 3 and 4 when the Pacers were without star Tyrese Haliburton. He scored 32 points and provided nine assists in a 114-111 loss in Game 3. In Game 4, he led the Pacers with 24 points, ten assists, and six rebounds, delivering another outstanding performance.
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Mathurin may not be able to participate in the Olympics due to shoulder surgery earlier this year, which disrupted his season. Despite showing potential to secure a spot on the Olympic squad, Carlisle revealed that he still hopes Mathurin will recover in time to play for Canada in the Olympics.
Also Read: Andrew Nembhard’s Pacers’ Journey Paves the Way for Brother Ryan’s Dream
